Los Angeles, CA —
With preparations underway for the 42nd annual Los Angeles LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) Pride celebration, Christopher Street West, the nonprofit organization that produces this the 3-day festival and parade, today announced their new branded message for the festival.

According to CSW, the message "...and Proud of it!" is both a celebratory declaration of pride in one's individual identity, as well as an all-embracing exclamation of our community's collective resolve to bring about a world that is inclusive of all Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender people. Other brand enhancements include vibrant new visuals, bold new colors and a sleeker overall appearance.

"On the heels of gains our founders could not have conceived of 42 years ago, the time was right to freshen up our branding," said Rodney Scott, CSW Board President.

Scott continues, "Don't ask, don't tell is history, marriage equality is robust in 6 states and Washington, D. C., and in a transcendent speech in Geneva, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton announced that America would use all of its diplomatic tools to promote LGBT rights around the world. Progress like this, I'm certainly proud of it!"

"Pride means different things to different people and that is why the organization opted for messaging that is so versatile but poignant," said Karina Samala, CSW Board member. "...and Proud of it!" can apply to everyone in our diverse community. One can be transgender and proud of it. One can be bisexual and proud of it. People can be proud of the LGBT community as a whole, proud of our accomplishments, or opt out of being labeled all together. No matter who you are, or how you identify, at LA PRIDE, you will be welcomed and celebrated."

Taking place June 8-10, 2012 in West Hollywood, this year's LA Pride festival will take place on June 8-10 in West Hollywood. The organizers have promised more room for stages, dancing, booths and vendors now that the new West Hollywood Library has been completed.